Odesa, Ukraine, has once again found itself in the crosshairs of escalating conflict as a series of drone and missile attacks targeted the historic city over the weekend. The assault, which involved 15 drones—a tactic commonly employed by the Kremlin—resulted in extensive damage to local landmarks and infrastructure, leaving residents grappling with both physical destruction and emotional toll.
The attacks occurred on Saturday evening, marking a significant escalation in Russia's ongoing campaign against Ukraine. Among the most notable damages were the Pushkin Museum and a statue of Alexander Pushkin, the esteemed Russian poet. The museum sustained cracked walls and structural damage, while the statue was toppled during the onslaught.
In addition to cultural landmarks, the Bristol hotel, a popular establishment for foreign visitors, was hit by a missile. The attack caused a large hole to gouge through the roof of the hotel’s conference room. This incident was part of a dual assault that also targeted a commercial vessel owned by a European company, amplifying concerns about safety and security in the region.
The drone strikes not only affected buildings but also severely disrupted the city's infrastructure, leading to power outages in various neighborhoods. Residents faced further challenges when the children’s medical clinic was struck, injuring four individuals, including a 10-year-old girl. The blast left approximately 80,000 people without heat as winter approaches.
Tetiana Liptuga, director of the children’s medical clinic, recounted the trauma of repeated attacks. “The windows of my building were blown out during an attack in July 2023,” she said, highlighting the ongoing peril faced by civilians.
Local residents expressed their grief and frustration over the attacks. Misha Shtekel reflected on the constant anxiety brought by war. “The Russians are managing to pierce our defences somehow. But you grow accustomed to shelling. I’m worried about my cat and my future. You feel grateful you are alive,” he stated.
Tetiana Ostrovska, another resident, emphasized the need for peace amid chaos: “War is pointless. We need quiet so we can rebuild. People here are energetic. This is a multicultural place with many ethnic groups. At the moment Russia’s war strangles everything.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy remains under pressure as attacks continue to escalate. While many residents express a desire for cessation of hostilities, they also emphasize their determination to reject any notion of capitulation. “Ukraine has to be Ukraine. We won’t compromise. We have to keep going until Russia is defeated,” said Serhii Vitynchak.
The recent attacks are part of a broader trend that has seen an increase in Russian drone raids since negotiations began between the US and Russia regarding the conflict. This uptick has raised alarm among military analysts and local officials who fear it may undermine any potential diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing crisis.
The United States has also shifted its stance in response to these developments. Reports indicate that the US has terminated its program designed to assist Ukraine in repairing its disrupted energy grid, further complicating efforts to stabilize the region.
As Odesa faces continued assaults aimed at crippling its economy and infrastructure, residents are left to contend with the implications of ongoing violence on their daily lives. Many share sentiments of exhaustion and despair as they navigate this relentless conflict.
“This is our affair. Zelenskyy is our president. He got 73% of the vote. We should decide,” asserted Palash, reflecting both national pride and frustration with external influences on Ukraine’s sovereignty.